Suho - ‘Self-Portrait’ EP Review

Better known as EXO’s leader Suho, Kim Junmyeon first embarked on his solo journey back in 2017 with “Curtain” (though he had previously featured on Leeteuk’s “My Hero”). Composed as part of SM’s Station project, the restrained ballad - and collaboration with pianist Song Young Joo - was a solid if-not slightly restricting debut effort for an undeniably talented member of one of the world’s biggest outfits. It certainly had its charm; the heavily-forefronted vocals giving plenty of space for the singer to show off his talents, the intimate feeling of the breezy number and the unquestionable potential shown throughout, but ultimately it lacked that extra bit of gravitas that would have really allowed for the South-Korean to shine.

Fast-forward one year to 2018, and “Dinner,” a collaboration with Jane Jang and another SM Station track, is released. A slow, melodic R&B track pulsating with atmosphere, the airy vocals of Jang, and Suho’s consistently smooth approach, blend perfectly, giving a real sense of weight to a ballad that effortlessly depicts two people meeting up for dinner and having their experience marred by a lack of understanding. Catchy, soft and smart, “Dinner” was a huge improvement on “Curtain,” and further showcased Suho’s solo potential.

So, when the 28-year-old’s first mini-album, Self-Portrait - the name being inspired by Van Gogh’s ability to express himself through art, in the same way Suho wants to show the deeper sides to himself through his music - was announced, it was understandable as to why fans of EXO were so excited. After all, it is the leader of the group’s chance to prove himself, even if only through a short-form release, as a capable solo artist, and one who can dominate charts.

And fortunately, it does. Opening with “O2,” an atmospheric, soft acoustic pop track bolstered by surging strings and subtle percussion. Suho’s voice is pushed straight to the forefront as he sings about his love for someone, telling them “show me where you wanna go.” It’s a strong, vivid opener that forces the EP into blooming, and a song that is well worth more than just a single repeat listen.

Lead single “Let’s Love,” a modern rock-type track follows, with plenty of character on show. Penned about having the courage to love, the 28-year-old sings over plodding drum beats and a tone-heavy guitar melody. The simplistic composition helps allow the EXO member to deliver the verses in whichever way he sees fit, enabling him to mould each note to his liking. Ultimately, the effortless changes between a sleek, calm tone and breezy falsetto works perfectly, succouring to create a perfect flag-bearer for the release.

At the halfway point, “Made in You,” a track the artist has confessed is a gift for fans who have been cheering him on for 9 years, continues proceedings with a personal, schematic number built predominately around its pretty, brisk chorus. Brimming with cheeriness, it’s a smiley offering that further shows off Suho’s vocal range and seemingly newfound confidence in expressing himself without leaving anything on the table.

Continuing, rock ballad “Starry Night,” a continuation of 2017’s “Curtain,” helps change gears seamlessly. Produced with dynamic strings and climactic electric guitars, it shows-off the artist’s vocal prowess in carrying a moodier track with a lot more lyrical gravitas. There is tangible emotion as the 28-year-old sings about the blackout curtain falling on a relationship, continuing an already interesting sonic narrative. It’s always good to hear continuity in music, and Suho does it here perfectly.

Beginning with a simplistic, sincere piano melody which evolves into an ethereal, vehement offering, the titular “Self-Portrait” serves up a truly climactic point in the release. The verses, produced with light, airy percussion help contrast with the powerful, vocally stunning chorus which allows for a freeform showcase of raw talent. Undoubtedly the apex, this is the type of showing you’d expect from someone who has been at the top of the industry for almost a decade.

And finally, “For You Now,” which sees Suho collaborate with singer-songwriter Younha, finishes the EP with a soft, slow duet. The two trade parts throughout, matching each other perfectly in a quiet offering that chooses to remain at a consistently low tempo as opposed to erupting in one final, huge climax. It’s a smart choice though, as it allows for a dignified, well-defined acoustic ballad-like pop track. A faultless ending to the release, it’s a song that will no doubt stand-out as a piece of music worth endless merit.

To conclude, this personal, predominately stripped-back approach fits Suho like a glove. Thanks to lyrical contributions throughout the release from the singer himself, the EP feels introspective at its core, taking the listener on a short journey through numerous emotions all linking to love. It’s cinematic in parts with vivid, broad soundscapes allowing for the listener’s mind to take them wherever they see fit, and will certainly go down as an extended play that is one of the best of the year. It may have taken a long while for fans of the artist to hear a fleshed-out, true solo release from the 28-year-old, but Self-Portrait is unquestionably worth the wait.

Rating: 9.5/10